What is a connected device?

Connected devices: what are they? why is it the future?

For years, computers were the only device connected to the internet. Now we should expect every electronic device to be multifunctional, internet connected and able to provide all types of digital content. The Internet of Things (IoT) is quickly becoming a reality. Studies show we should expect from 24 to 30 billion “connected devices” by 2020.

The IoT is expected to affect all types of organizations. It will change commerce, workflow, and customer relationships. Companies that make durable physical products will create a digitally connected version. Companies that make consumables will be able to revolutionize logistics.

What is Quantified Self?

The Quantified Self is a movement to incorporate technology into data acquisition on aspects of a person’s daily life : food, mood, quality of air, blood oxygen levels, performances, etc… Using self-tracking data to improve daily functioning is also known as lifelogging, body hacking, self-surveillance, sousveillance, and Humanistic Intelligence.

Which areas in your life are going to be the first ones to be connected?

– Home Automation

IoT devices can be used to monitor and control the mechanical, electrical and electronic systems to improve convenience, comfort, energy efficiency, and security. For example, home automation systems can be used to control lighting, heating, air conditioning, appliances, communication systems, entertainment and home security devices.

– Health

Personal Health Management IoT devices can be used to enable remote health monitoring and emergency notification systems. Consumers who are either fitness focused or chronically ill will seek better information to effectively manage their health. Connected devices can for example measure and control blood pressure, heart rate, weight,…

Example : Smoke Watchers is the first collaborative system helping smokers and vapers kick the habit. Thanks to a smart battery for ecig, users benefit from a complete solution for real-time support and monitoring through the app.

– Transportation

The IoT can assist in integration of communications, control, and information processing across various transportation systems, i.e. the vehicle, the infrastructure, and the driver or user. We should expect all kinds of improvements, such as smart traffic control, smart parking, safety and road assistance.

What are the risks with connected devices?

As the Internet of Things spreads widely, there are increasing risks for privacy and security for consumers. Cyber attacks could become a physical threat, not just virtual. Some Internet-connected appliances can already spy on people at home: televisions, cameras, thermostats,… Terrorists and criminals would be in a position to get easier access to aggregated sensor data and remotely-controlled objects.

Finally, can all these connected devices make us lazy and less intelligent? If they do so much for us and instead of us, next generations might lose or never learn some valuable skills and become vulnerable.